State police seek public’s help solving 40-year-old cold case

The New Jersey State Police are seeking the public’s help solving the murder of a New Jersey family 40 years ago.

A post made on the agency’s Facebook page stated that ballistic and DNA evidence originally collected at the crime scene have been resubmitted for additional testing due to new technological advances.

Police say that officers responded to a triple homicide Oct. 30, 1978. They say that officers found the bodies of Gary and Joan Deal, both 26, along with the body of their 3-year-old son Jason Deal inside the family’s home on Mays Landing Road in Folsom.

Officials say that Gary and Joan were both shot multiple times and had their throats slashed. Jason was found, still in his pajamas, with his throat cut as well.

Police say that the last time anyone has spoken to the family was days earlier on Oct. 26, 1978.

Authorities say that although several suspects were interviewed, no one was ever charged.

Anyone who may have any information about the crime is urged to call Detective Mario Nocito, of the New Jersey State Police Homicide South Unit, at 609-561-1800 ext. 3354. Anonymous tips are welcome.